11 Question with...SitDownTracy

On Saturday, April 21st, local act SitDownTracy is releasing its second record, Twenty Something Winters, at our friendly neighbourhood Lo Pub. Also on the bill are Modern Romantics and Scotch+Tape.

I caught up with the band in advance of the show and threw 11 questions its way. Here's what Matt, Sean, Janelle, Trevor, and Aaron had to say:

11 Questions…

1. Where are you right now?

Matt, Sean, Janelle, and Trevor: Band HQ (The Fontana)
Aaron: Aaron: At home nursing my inconveniently timed throat infection!

Let’s talk Winnipeg…

2. Who is the most underrated Winnipeg-based band/musician?

Janelle: Our friend Dana Moore aka Gt. Dane
Matt: He's constantly working, always writing, and he's still a big part of Winnpeg music, even though he's temporarily based out of Toronto.
Trevor: Dana's a great musician. He's the unique songwriting style people would remember from All of Your Friends. It's always a treat to work with him.
Sean: He had us out to his cabin for New Year's Day and took me skating on Falcon Lake. I am indebted to this man for life. I'm not saying I would take a bullet for him; I'm saying I already have.
Aaron: In addition to being a stellar musician and amazing friend, Dana did the cover design for our album and is also my personal stylist.

3. What is your favourite local venue?

Sean: That's easy. It's the Lo Pub right?
Matt: Oh yeah, it's gotta be. That place kind of reminds me of my parent's basement: cozy.
Trevor: They have a lot of great acts there, like this local act everybody's been talking about: SitDownTracy.
Janelle: Yeah, I hear those guys are on fire.
Aaron: That must hurt! Lo Pub is definitely our favourite. Also worth mentioning is the upstart alternative venue Atomic Gallery. They've been doing some really great stuff since opening less than a year ago!

4. Where do you shop for music?

Sean: Value Village and garage sales.
Matt: In many ways, the hunt for music is even better than going to a store and knowing you can find what you're looking for.
Aaron: And of course we'll be stopping by the impeccable Into the Music for this year's Record Store Day, and perhaps even a live performance... who knows!?! (hint hint, nudge nudge, say no more, say no more)

5. Where is the best place in town to catch a bite?

Sean: Vjs – Burger/Fries/Shake; The Wagonwheel - Clubhouse
Matt: New Hong Kong on Notre Dame – Shrimp Dumplings, Sweet Bean Bun, Peking Perogies
Matt: There's 10 things on the menu, they are ALL good.
Janelle: Ken Hong's (aka Shanghai Shwartz) – Wanton Soup
Aaron: I'd say Sals House but it's all gone down hill since Burton Cummings sold his shares. Late-night menu? What the hell is that?

6. How many Winnipeg Jets games have you watched this year?

Trevor: Matt and I saw Will Arnett and Sam Katz at the same Jets game. Sam wouldn't buy us a beer for some reason.
Matt: We asked him to. He said no.
Janelle: I saw the same game, but I was in the nosebleed section having quality time with my daddio. We had burritos.
Aaron: I think I watched a game once but it was mostly just an excuse to drink beer (aka. our national pastime).

7. What’s the worst bus route in the city?

Sean: Taking the 16 north out of South Osborne is the most insulting transit experience in the city. Because the transit station is right down the street, there are like 5 times more “Not In Service” busses than there should be. Your hopes are dashed every few seconds.
Janelle: Well, at least they apologize for that now.
Sean: Yeah, that's nice.
Matt: I don't take the bus.

Let’s talk music…

8. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Trevor: Fleetwood Mac – Tusk; The Beatles – Magical Mystery Tour; New Pornographers – Mass Romantic; B52's – Self-titled; The Misfits – Legacy of Brutality
Janelle: The Sadies – Favourite Colours; Moody Blues – Days of Future Passed
Matt: Nirvana – Nevermind (made me want to become a drummer); NIN – The Downward Spiral; Portishead - Dummy
Sean: The Mars Volta – Deloused in the Comatorium
Janelle: Niiiiiiiice!
Sean: Huey Lewis & The News – Fore!; ELO – A New World Record; Beirut – Lon Gisland EP
Aaron: T.Rex - Ride a White Swan 7"; Devo - Are We Not Men?; Ty Segall - Goodbye Bread; The Besnard Lakes - Are the Roaring Night; Chad Vangaalen - Skelliconnection/Soft Airplane

9. Of the albums you own, which has the best cover art?

Matt: Sniff 'N' The Tears – Fickle Heart; I wish I owned a Cannibal Corpse album so I could say that
Trevor: Neil Young & The Shocking Pinks – Everybody's Rocking
Janelle: Rolling Stones – Metamorphosis

Aaron: It's a toss up between two of Canada's "great" acts: Loverboy's Get Lucky VS. Burton Cummings' My Own Way to Rock. They are two sides of the same horrendous coin.






10. What’s one piece of equipment absolutely vital to your live show?

Sean: The 9V Battery
Trevor: My guitar, without it all I'm playing is a patch cord through an amp.
Janelle: Patch cords... patch cords that work.
Matt: The rug under my drums.
Aaron: The wind beneath my wings.
Trevor: Oh, I understand this question now. My answer would be... the gifts that I was born with.
Aaron: Yeah, I don't envy your mother Trev... having to push you out with that hollow body guitar and all.

11. And finally, after a show (or during!), what adult beverage do you like to consume?

Janelle: Adult beverage?
Aaron: Beer. Or maybe homemade wine.
Trevor: Beers.
Matt: Beer.
Sean: Matt's beer.

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11 Questions...w/ The Magnificent 7s

On Thursday, December 15th, local act The Magnificent 7s are dropping their sophomore album, All Kinds of Mean, at the West End Cultural Centre. On this new release, these ascending road warriors -- comprised of David Nishikawa (banjo/dobro), Ida Sawabe (bass fiddle/vocals), TJ Blair (guitar, banjo and vocals), Matt Magura (guitar/vocals) and Andy Bart (fiddle) -- seamlessly and judiciously weave together elements of bluegrass, folk, country, and punk into a fully-realized, distinguishable, and galvanizing sound.

I recently tracked down most of the band members recently and threw 11 questions their way. Here's what they had to say...

1. Where is the best venue to catch a show in our fair town?

Ida - the late Albert
Matt - the late Studio 54, The Standard*, WECC on December 15th, 2011
*with Pinball
Dave - on the street

2. Who is the most underrated Winnipeg-based band?

Ida - 77 Guns, Andrew Neville and the Poor Choices, The Lonely Vulcans, The F-Holes
Matt - Ultra-Mega, can’t wait for the new record.
Dave - Big Dave McLean

3. Where is the best place in town to catch a bite?

Matt - Spring Roll (1142 Notre Dame), Deep fried Plantains from Bueno Bros (Isabel and McDermot), with Ice Cream.

Dave - Mondragon: If only they'd use real cream in the vegan coffee

4. Where do you shop for music?

Ida - Pawn shops, thrift stores, my parents record collection, Into the Music
Matt - Shows. I don’t own many records. I’m not into downloading music, or against it for that matter, but there is enough live music.
going on to keep my ears busy.
Dave - Thrift store bargain bins

5. How many Jets games are you attending this year?

We’re not really into badminton

Some hodgepodge…

6. Of the records you own, which has the best album art?

Ida - Osama Kitajima - "Benzaiten"

T.J. - http://www.stevecarter.com/albumcovers.htm

Matt - to pick from something I do own: photographs and paintings over the years on each of Propagandhi’s albums. Also Paul Robles’ paperworks on each of the Crooked Brothers albums. And Evil Survives!

Dave - Spinal Tap (Smell the Glove-alternate cover) and The Beatles (white Album)


7.  What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Ida -
Tiffany(self-titled)
Madonna(self-titled)
Aretha Franklin-"Aretha's Gold,"
Loretta Lynn's Greatest Hits I & II,
Black Sabbath-"Paranoid,"
Van Halen-(self-titled) & 1984,
Patsy Cline-"The Patsy Cline Story,"
Lee Aaron-"Metal Queen" & "Bodyrock,"
Squareheads-"Persona Non Grata"

Matt -
Tom Waits (Rain Dogs)
I-Spy (Revenge of the Little Shits)
Queen (‘Live’ Killers)
Roger Miller (the Genius of Roger Miller)
Dirty Three (Ocean Songs via Paul Guillas)
Bruce Springsteen (Born in the USA)
Wax Mannequin (Saxon)
Stereolab (Emperor Tomato Ketchup) R.I.P. Mary Hansen

Dave -
Tony Trishka (A Robot Plane Flies over Arkansas)

8. What books are you currently reading?

Ida - "Striking Thoughts: Bruce Lee's Wisdom for Daily Living"

Matt - Ida reads. We listen.

Dave - Book of the Dead, Men's Fitness





9. What are some of your favourite tv shows at the moment?

Ida - Flight of the Conchords, South Park
Matt - Samurai Pizza Cats, Walking Dead, Dancing with the Zombie-Hoarder-Celebrity-Matchmakers,
post-Bridalplasty in the Dragons Den
Dave - All in the Family (Youtube)

10. Blackberry or iPhone?

Ida -  Payphones
Matt - Had a Blackberry for a while, ended up in a world of debt.
Dave - Phone-e

11. And finally, back to Winnipeg…what’s the worst bus route in the city?

Matt - As a cyclist, Graham Avenue.
Dave - Any, during winter. Build a subway

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Man Your Horse

Lauded for their frenetic live shows, overall technical proficiency, and inventive, off-kilter rhythms, Vancouver-based indie-rock trio Man Your Horse are currently out touring in support of their latest recording, Shorts EP. This high-kilometer trek around North America sees the band drop by The Albert this Sunday, June 6th, before returning to Winnipeg on June 22nd for a gig at the Lo Pub.

I recently caught up with 2/3s of Man Your Horse and threw 11 questions their way. Discussed: attending a Bush concert back when they were Bush X; what make Jaws such a rewatchable film; and the 4th member of the band.

J = Julian (guitar + vocals) ; C = Calum (bass)

1. Where are you right now?

J: Sitting in the sun outside my place in beautiful Vancouver, BC, Canada (Nardwaur voice).
C: A poorly lit kitchen

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

J: Hearts of Gold: The Rap Collection - this is a compilation and not an "album", but it exposed me to A Tribe Called Quest and Run DMC when I was 10 years old.
Pink Moon (Nick Drake) - Taught me the importance of a true performance in a recording.
Going Down Swingin' (Sweep the Leg Johnny) - Eye opening tech-rock.
You, You're a History in Rust (Do Make Say Think) - This is my favourite sounding recording of all time - so much space and feel.
American Don (Don Caballero) - Opened up a whole new world of music for me.
Lionel Hampton and His Giants (Lionel Hampton) - Showed me that jazz can rule.

C: One Man Band (Abner Jay) : honesty
Trees, Swallows, Houses (Maps & Atlases) : technicality without ego or aggression
You, You’re A History in Rust (Do Make Say Think) :  words can be overrated
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars (David Bowie) : still wish I was a spaceman

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

J: The most outrageous - Goodnight Vienna (Ringo Star).
Most eye catching/good design - You're a Women, I'm a Machine (DFA 1979)
Most suited to the music - King of the Delta Blues Singers (Robert Johnson)
Straight up funny/good - Rumours (Fleetwood Mac) ha! Kills me every time.


C: AWB (Average White Band) – many years ago my Dad lived with some of the members in a dilapidated house in Dundee, Scotland, while they attended architectural school - so it resonates. Not cheeky by today`s standards, but I laughed at it plenty when I was small.

4. What was the first concert you attended, and how old were you?

J: The first concert that I can remember is the Victoria Jazz Festival, I believe that I was 9 years old.

C: The first actual –go out and get a ticketmaster ticket - concert I went to was when I was just shy of 14 and living in London, Ontario. I went to see Bush in Toronto (at the time still being called Bush X – but only in Canada).

5. What’s one piece of equipment absolutely essential to your live show?
J:  Nick L'Rage, our trusty van that always stands ready. 4th member of the band, baby.

C: A belt.

6. What is your favourite music video?



J: "Do The Evolution"  by Pearl Jam

C: "Sabotage" by the Beastie Boys I’d say. I like my moustaches to be obviously fake.

And some hodgepodge…

7. What tv shows are you currently following?

J: Parks and Recreation + I've been re-watching a bunch of old The Mighty Boosh episodes.

C: Bored to Death, Archer, Futurama

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

J: The Wayfinders (Wade Davis)

C: A Wild Sheep Chase by Haruki Murakami and Red Harvest by Dashiell Hammett. Sort of on a noir kick right now – I like ‘em hard-boiled.

9. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

J:  CB4. I think I watched it a ga-billion times in highschool. It still rules. AND, ummm… The Princess Bride.  Gangster rap and love stories? AS YOU WISH!



C: JAWS. Crusty sea captain. Giant shark. Gripping soundtrack. Great dialogue.

10. What’s your current ring tone?

J:  I only rock the vibrate mode exclusively. I said it. Consequently, I miss a lot of calls...

C: Belleville Rendez-Vous – Benoit Charest. Ole-timey dancing, Django style.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

J: No brainer - FLY! Birds and spaceships… they totally have it figured out.

C: Fly, no contest.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Jenny Berkel

Since she first started performing three years ago, resident singer-songwriter Jenny Berkel has been winning over audiences, thanks to her earnest, sincere song craftsmanship, deeply affecting voice, and sharp, poetic lyrics.

This Wednesday night (the 25th) at the Lo Pub, Berkel is holding an album fundraiser and tour kickoff show. Joining her on the bill are local musical acts The Crooked Brothers, Fire & Smoke, and The Empty Standards with proceeds from the event will go toward her debut full-length, due out this fall.

I recently caught up with Berkel and asked her 11 questions. Here’s what she had to say.

11 Questions…

1. Where are you right now?

Sitting at the table with my first cup of coffee, looking out the window at downtown Winnipeg.

Let’s talk Winnipeg…

2. Who is the most underrated Winnipeg-based band?

I just heard Bobby Desjarlais (Attica Riots and the Bokononists) for the first time and was completely captivated by his voice and performance.

3. What is your favourite local venue?

Photo Credit: Bryan Scott 

You can always count on a good show at the Times Change(d). But I love the sound at the Park Theatre.

4. Where do you shop for music?

I have the unfortunate habit of moving around too much, so I don't collect anything. Right now I buy music online - not my preference, but it's all I've got. I'm looking forward to the day I can get a record player and fill my rooms with tangible music.

5. Where is the best place in town to catch a bite?

Deseo - it's in the sun room attached to the front of the Albert, and has the most perfect atmosphere. The food is delicious and the coffee is extra strong. They also feature live music during Saturday's brunch, from noon until two o'clock.

6. What’s the worst bus route in the city?

Any bus route off of Portage seems daunting. And that number 29 is very elusive. I can never catch it.

7. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Joni Mitchell - Ladies of the Canyon
Years ago, I found a scratched up copy of this at work and brought it home. I was living alone for the first time, and must have listened to it hundreds of times - she filled my apartment just right.

Bright Eyes - I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning
I can remember the exact moment I first heard anything from this album. It was "Landlocked Blues," a duet with Emmylou Harris - I was working at a summer camp (as a nurse, strangely), and my boss showed this to me. I went out and bought the album immediately.

8. Of the albums you own, which has the best cover art?

Wooden Arms by Patrick Watson. The whole package is beautiful.







9. What TV shows are you currently following?

I haven't owned a television since departing the family home. But if I did have one, I'd probably still be watching episodes of Road to Avonlea...

10. What is your current ringtone?

I think it's called "classic."

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

Fly - I'd feel creepy being invisible.

Read more...

In The Know...11 Questions w/ Sandman Viper Command

Known for their engaging, tight live sets, the uniquely named Sandman Viper Command are currently bringing their fuzzed-out garage pop sensibilities across Canada.

This includes a pair of shows for the guys (Rob Janson, Daniel Reardon, Aaron Harvey, Matt Damon Meyer) in Winnipeg this weekend: the first at the Standard tomorrow evening, and the second a free in-store gig at Music Trader on Sunday afternoon, round 2 p.m.

I caught up with the band and threw 11 questions their way. Together, or as indicated, the young rockers shed light on their first-ever concerts, tv shows they’re currently following, and the one piece of equipment that is absolutely necessary to their live show.

11 Questions…

1. Where are you right now?

We’re currently in Thunder Bay right now, which is a first for all of us.

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Big Shiny Tunes 2, Abbey Road - The Beatles, Tragic Kingdom - No Doubt, Bleed American - Jimmy Eat World

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

There Goes The Neighbourhood - Joe Walsh








4. What was the first concert you attended, and how old were you?

Sharon, Lois, and Bram when I was 4. They sang a bunch of songs I may or may not have remembered from television.
-Rob

I went and saw Fred Penner when I was 3, and I recently got the opportunity to meet him at Sneaky Dees during CMW.
-Dan

5. What’s one piece of equipment absolutely essential to your live show?

Were a pretty straight forward rock 'n roll band so we can get by on very little, given that we have atleast; a guitar, and something to bang on. Really, the only thing we absolutley need are robs vocal chords....aaaanndd our voodoo pygmy witch-doctor. He helps us out a lot more than one would think.
-Dan

6. What is your favourite music video?

Inca Roads - Frank Zappa

And some hodgepodge…

7. What tv shows are you currently following?

CPAC, Top Chef.

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

Wake Up - Jack Kerouac, Waiting for Godot - Samuel Beckett, and Essex County - Jeff Lemire

9. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

Starship/Super Troopers

10. What’s your current ring tone?



The Entertainer.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

The ability of flight is the obvious choice, as you can just fly into the clouds and you've become invisible. Plus, only spies and pervs require the ability to become invisible.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Hot Panda

Like a lot of ambitious Canadian bands, Edmonton foursome Hot Panda are no stranger to touring and promoting their music in the flesh. The quartet are currently out and about in support of their sophomore release, How Come I'm Dead?, an unabashedly whimsical record that makes their genre-evading styling even harder to classify. There's a disparate art-rock track; a blast of psychedelic post-rock; a playful hip-hop track; and even some bouncy and melodic indie-pop numbers. And what makes How Come I'm Dead? work is that the members of Hot Panda are, well, talented enough to pull off all these sounds and styles and clearly have a lot of fun doing so.

I recently caught up with vocalist/guitarist Chris Connolly and asked him 11 questions. Discussed: the most underrated band in the nation; why he brings his own microphone everywhere; and who would win a fight between Stewart and Colbert.

Catch Hot Panda this Sunday at the Lo Pub.

1. Where are you right now?

Sitting in my living room on a sunny winter day in Vancouver.

2.What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Pulp - Different Class
The Strokes - Is This it?
The Beatles - White Album
Velvet Underground - White Light/White Heat
Mercury Rev - Desserter Songs
Belle and Sebastian - Tigermilk

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

Some Girls by The Rolling Stones.








4. Who is the most underrated Canadian band at the moment?

Nickelback? But seriously The Wet Secretes! What a party!

5. What’s one piece of equipment absolutely essential to your live show?

Gotta be the microphone. My own microphone, I get grossed out at sharing microphones with other people.

6.What is your favourite music video?



I love that UNKLE video for Rabbit in Your Headlights. Or may Setting Sun by the Chemical Brothers.

7. What tv shows are you currently following?

Mad Men, The Office, Deadwood, Breaking Bad, Big Love, 30 Rock, Daily Show...

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

I Drink for a Reason by David Cross.

9. Jon Stewart or Stephen Colbert?

In a fight? Stephen Colbert, he's got a way longer reach.

10. What’s your current ring tone?

It just vibrates. I'm all business.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

Easy. Fly. Next question. Wait. It's over. Easy.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Rob Moir

Toronto songsmith Rob Moir makes stirring, honest, and uber-melodic folk music, a remarkable stylistic shift for a musician who, for over five years, fronted erstwhile indie-punk band Dead Letter Dept.

Armed with just a guitar, his trademark wit, and the songs off his debut EP, This Is The Life, the burgeoning folk rocker is currently touring the United States and Canada in support of this release. And what's a 40-date solo jaunt without a stop in Winnipeg for a gig this Saturday at the Lo Pub.

I caught up with Moir recently and threw 11 Questions his way. Some topics discussed: why In Bruges is one film that he can watch over and over again; how he selects the books he reads; and the oddest thing a fan has ever yelled during a show.

Here's what he had to say:

1. Where are you right now?

I'm drinking some micro beer in San Francisco, California.
Definitely one of the most beautiful and coolest cities on earth.

Let’s talk music…


2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

The Replacements 'Tim'
Jawbreaker 'Dear You'
Green Day '1039 Smoothed Out Slappy Hours/Dookie'
Billy Bragg 'Back to Basics'
Whiskeytown 'Pneumonia'
The Beatles 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band'

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

The Swarm 'Old Blue Eyes Is Dead'' 7"








4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

J. Robbins

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

"Your dad was my music teacher."

6. What is your favourite music video?

The Ramones 'I Wanna Be Sedated'

7. Where do you shop for music?

Who's Emma and Fullblast (Toronto)

And some hodgepodge...


8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

'In Bruges.' That movie gets to me and makes me laugh harder then
anything I've seen in a long time. Europe has my heart and this film
reminds me how much I love that crazy land.

9. What book(s) are you currently reading?

Selected letters of Allen Ginsberg. Looking forward to some Atwood
and Richler books my friends recommended for me during my tour across
Canada. I like to read stuff inspired or based off where I am
geographically.

10. What tv show(s) do you follow?



I love Curb Your Enthusiasm, Peep Show & almost anything on the BBC.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

I like the ability to turn flies invisible.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Ingrid Gatin

Over the past month or so, resident songstress Ingrid Gatin has been out and about charming audiences with her heartstring-tugging lyrics, soulful vocals, and characteristic musical style (she's known for rocking a mean accordion). 

But by out and about, I don't mean at your the venues and clubs. Instead, Gatin has been performing a string of shows while travelling on Canada’s treasured locomotive: Via Rail. And having just entertained passengers on the route across the prairies from Edmonton to Winnipeg, she is officially back in Manitoba for a concert this Saturday at the Exchange Community Church where it's a safe bet new material will be played. Look for her next release this May. 

I caught up with Gatin prior to her departing Edmonton and fired 11 questions her way. Topics discussed included: the seminal impact of Ace of Base’s The Sign; the can’t-miss album art adorning all A Hawk and a Hacksaw records; and, naturally, the feckless St. Boniface bus route.

1. Where are you right now?

We are in cold cold Edmonton.

Let’s talk Winnipeg…


2. Who is the most underrated Winnipeg-based band?

I have played off and on with a band called Twin. They do this folk and experimental music thing, and I think it is totally great. It really gets me going.

3. What is your favourite local venue?

I have a penchant for shows in art spaces. I do a lot of different art projects, and I find it is a really good way to facilitate having other art going on in the same space.

4. Where do you shop for music?

I usual buy music at music shows!

5. Where is the best place in town to catch a bite?

Oh man, this list could go on! I love the West End for food! Amazing Vietnamese and Ethiopian, not to mention the Black Sheep Diner. The Falafel Place is always a favourite.




6. What’s the worst bus route in the city?

I just moved to St. B and I can't seem to catch a bus. I've heard that the buses come early..? Maybe it's the St. B bus route. Although when I get on the bus, they are the friendliest bus drivers! Double edged sword.

And some hodgepodge…


7. What are some albums that completely changed your life?



The Sign - Ace of Base for sure. I was probably about 9 or 10, and it rocked my small town Saskatchewan world. Also Blue - Joni Mitchell. Realizing all the music my mom was listening to was actually amazing was a window to the new world. La Maison De Mon Rêve by Cocorosie was an album that really opened up my head/heart musically.

8. Of the albums you own, which has the best cover art?

I've loved every album cover by A Hawk and A Hacksaw.






9. What TV shows are you currently following?

I actually have never had TV.

10. What's the last great film you saw?

 I just rewatched The Red Violin. What a dramatic film! It was incredible.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or to turn invisible?

Fly.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Small Sins

Whether through word-of-mouth, show reviews, or enthusiastic comments on this blog, Small Sins' reputation for engaging and memorable live shows is spreading. And may go viral. 

I’ll admit, it's all deeply intriguing.

Tomorrow night, Winnipegers have the chance to see this buzzed-about band in the flesh. The Toronto-based pop collective -- comprised of Thomas D’Arcy (vocals, guitars, many other instruments), Brent Follett (drums), Kevin Hilliard (keyboards), Todor Kobakov (strings, piano), and Steve Krecklo (guitars) -- materialize at the Albert, touring in support of their fantastic, brainstickingly melodic record, Pot Calls Kettle Black.

I recently caught up with band founder / principal songwriter Thomas D’Arcy for 11 questions. Here’s what the man had to say. 

1. Where are you right now?

In my studio in Toronto, feeling quite hungover.

Let’s talk music…


2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Yankee Hotel Foxtrot by Wilco was a big one for me in my adult years. Zeppelin as a kid.

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

The Monks, Bad Habits














4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

Already worked with him.. John McEntire.

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

'Fags!'

6. What is your favourite music video?



I guess OK GO! is starting to steal that title. Take your pick.


And some hodgepodge…


7. What tv shows are you currently following?

East Bound and Down, Boardwalk Empire.

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

You are Not A Stranger Here by Adam Haslett








9. Jon Stewart or Stephen Colbert?

Colbert

10. What’s your current ring tone?

Vibrate

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

Invisible for sure.

Read more...

In The Know...11 Questions w/ Wool On Wolves

Upstart folk-rock band Wool on Wolves is part of a terrific three-band bill this Saturday night at the Park Theatre (also featuring The Liptonians and Henry and the Nightcrawlers.)

Hailing from the Albertan capital, Wool on Wolves has been deservedly dubbed by the Edmonton Journal as “Edmonton’s newest folk-rock sensation” a reputation indebted to their spirited live performances and their thoughtful, nuanced, and flat-out inviting full-length debut record, Grey Matter (which came into being two days ago).

The fivesome recently took part in my 11 questions, and noted that their answers were, “Written over some beers before our show in Leduc last night. We had a joint discussion as a band. It was very democratic. Ha.”

Here’s what the collective had to say:

1. Where are you right now?

Burnsy O'Flannagan's Public House in Leduc, Alberta

Let’s talk music…


2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

All of us are mo-town and soul fans and so it only seems proper that Call Me by Al Green be mentioned. That album is amazing and get played daily in our house. It actually led to the phrase "if you haven't listened to side 2 of Al Green, then you haven't been drunk with Gord". Too true. A second album we can all stand by is pretty much anything by Wilco, but in particular our favourite is Sky Blue Sky. That record gets consistently better on every spin. It helps that Nels Cline is an alright guitar player.

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

Without a doubt Fate by Dr. Dog. That cover caused about a 3 month hunt for an appropriate tapestry for our band room. We found a pretty good one, but nothing as good as that cover.  The record is also probably #3 in the list of 'life changers'.

4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

It's tough to not go with a clique answer here, but George Martin would be top choice.

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

"Can I get up and play harmonica with you guys? Wait... is this song in G?"

6. What is your favourite music video?



Nothing gets much better than the video for Just by Radiohead. Although one Chad VanGaalen's video for Molten Light gives nightmares and it an amazing video. Creepy kids fairytales gone wrong.

And some hodgepodge…


7. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

Pretty much anything by Wes Anderson, although Fantastic Mr. Fox gets top cussing score for replayability. That's a word right?

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

The Great American Novel... aka the Batman Forever Movie Storybook. It's riveting.

9. Jon Stewart or Stephen Colbert?



Jon Stewart is le bomb. He's smart, funny, and samart!

10. PC or Mac?

People still use PCs?

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

This one caused some heated debate. Invisibility would be really sweet... but ultimately you'd probably just end up sneaking into concerts, banks, and bedrooms. Things which are easily attained by the fame of being able to fly! And you wouldn't have to do all that sneaking around. It doesn't matter if your invisible man... people can still hear your farts.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ The Jezabels

It’s been a crazy-busy year for Sydney, Australian indie-rock band The Jezabels.

Over the past 52 weeks, the Aussie foursome (vocalist Hayley Mary; keyboardist Heather Shannon, guitarist Sam Lockwood, and drummer Nik Kaloper) have toured constantly, even sharing the stage with Polaris-short-list-makers Tegan & Sara; they’ve dropped the final two entries of a planned EP trilogy; and, most importantly, the Jezabels really evolved their sound, letting their ideas bounce around and grow during the recording sessions behind the Dark Storm EP (released last month).

At times sinister and moody, the Jezabels keep the brooding, dramatic sound on Dark Storm in check with surprisingly catchy pop hooks that are impossible to ignore. See and hear for yourself - the Aussie quartet perform live this Saturday at the Albert w/ Two Hours Traffic.

I recently caught up with guitarist Sam Lockwood for 11 questions, who revealed two albums that completely changed his life, shared the most inappropriate thing a fan has yelled during a show (said attendee happened to be dressed as Harry Potter too), and, like many musicians featured on 11 Qs before, professed his love for, you guessed it, The Wire.


1. Where are you right now?

2210 7th Avenue Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. It's the Thriftlodge!

Let’s talk music…


2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

I'll say two... The first was Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. I heard that at a friends house; his Dad had it on and I immediately felt shock and awe. I think it was the kind of music that I had been looking for a long time. The second would be Gillian Welch's Soul Journey. I feel that Gillian Welch is by far the greatest song writer going round at the moment.

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

Bright Eyes' I'm Wide Awake it's Morning - it's all embroidered and beautiful. It's such a cool way to represent the general sound of the album. Folky and well sewn?









4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

I think it would be Jim O'Rourke - though maybe not for our band? For the Jezabels, I'm really not too sure. Lachlan Mitchell is still our ideal man/producer!

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

Just last night, a man dressed as Harry Potter (it was Halloween) yelled out to Hayley our singer 'Your voice makes me Horny!!!'

6. What is your favourite music video?



Every time I see Johnny Cash's Hurt film clip I cry so much. But it is a nice sense of crying - that is such a beautiful cover of a once not-so-beautiful (but still awesome) song. The film clip and its images only compound the emotion of that song.

7. Where do you shop for music?

I don't know if I can name shops, but So Music on King Street is great. Also Title has some good stuff as well, though it is a bit snooty! (Both in Sydney.)

And some hodgepodge…


8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

THIS sounds snooty but Michael Haneke's Hidden is definitely the best movie ever made. It is hard to watch, but I find it so helpful to understand the disaster that is the current world we live in.

9. What book(s) are you currently reading?

Freedom by Jonathan Franzen (above). It had heaps of hype, and I'd read his previous one. It's living up to the hype I think, but it's actually quite hard going. In a good way...

10. What tv show(s) do you follow?

I love the Wire, and that's about it really. That show is incredible, and it's hard to watch anything else after watching that.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

I think fly - I think invisibility would lead to some bad behaviour; I wouldn't trust myself with that. Flying would just be really fun.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Falklands

When reading Falklands’ press bio, I came across this impressive fact: over the past year-and-a-half, the spirited indie-rockers have logged over 100 shows! AND have made two EPs, released two 7-inch singles, and, most recently, launched their debut full-length record, Think About It.

But, really, it's not that surprising. Armed with a brand of melodic power-pop that frequently steers and crashes into punk-rock, this upstart Edmonton-based quartet simply brims with high-octane, infectious energy.

See the tireless foursome this Tuesday, October 19th at the Lo Pub w/ Plus Perfect.

I recently caught up with singer/guitar Jason Stevenson for 11 questions. Discussed: the Wire’s sheer awesomeness; that new Weezer album cover; and the impact the Dead Milkmen had on his younger, impressionable self.

1. Where are you right now?

I am sitting in a kitchen in Ottawa. We are late leaving so I will try to type fast. Please forgive any spelling errors. Last night we played to five of the greatest people in the world.

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Dead Milkmen- Big Lizard in My Backyard. I was in grade six and I had never heard anything like it. I still haven't. It took ten years for the rest of my music taste to catch up to that record.

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

I can tell you what the worst is. That stupid fucking Weezer record with the guy from Lost on it.

4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

Nick Lowe. When he was the house producer he was refered to as, "The Basher" "Bash em' out and tart em' up later." That was his motto for recording some of the greatest records ever. I think that would be good for us because we don't have any money.

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

"Play one you know."

6. What is your favourite music video?

I can't afford cable.

7. Where do you shop for music?

At Listen Records in beautiful downtown Edmonton. A guy named Jazz works there.

And some hodgepodge…


8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

Rushmore



9. What book(s) are you currently reading?

Catch 22

10. What tv show(s) do you follow?

The Wire made all other TV shows obsolete.

(Editor's Note: Video is NSFW).



11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

If I say fly, do my arms have to turn into wings? I don't want wings but I would like to fly. I'll take metaphorical wings.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Paper Lions

On Thursday, October 14th, Belfast, Prince Edward Island music exports Paper Lions take the stage at the Royal Albert for a night of smart, spirited, and style-bending indie-rock/pop (Library Voices are also on the bill).

Comprised of Colin Buchanan (guitar), David MacDonald (drums), and brothers Rob (bass) and John MacPhee (lead vocals), this ascending quartet have generated some healthy buzz thanks in part to their well-received, explosive EP, Trophies, and their high energy, unique shows.

I recently caught up with the band's guitarist, Colin Buchanan, for 11 Questions, and here's what he had to say:

1. Where are you right now?

On route back to the island (Prince Edward (home)) to play the 7th and 8th show of our cross country record release tour with Bend Sinister and Library Voices

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

The Strokes - Is This It : This album came out when I was about to enter grade 10 and thus just about to enter High School. Up to that point my musically tastes pretty much began and ended with that Suburban Pop Punk stuff that was everywhere. I tried my hand at skateboarding and BMXing with moderate success. After hearing that first Strokes album I didn't feel like I needed to prove my extreme sport skills anymore.

3.  Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

Bowie - Aladdin Sane

4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

Nigel Godrich

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

"One more song!"

6. What is your favourite music video?



El Guincho - Bombay

7. Where do you shop for music?

Back Alley Music in Charlottetown PEI

And some hodgepodge…


8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?



The Big Lebowski

9. What book(s) are you currently reading?

The Big Short - Michael Lewis

10. What tv show(s) do you follow?

Mad Men, Breaking Bad, Big Love, home improvement

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

I'm like a bird. I want to fly away.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ PS I Love You

On Sunday, October 3rd at the Pyramid, drums ‘n’ guitar duos are on special; but, for once, it’s not those clamorous Japandroids dudes that are begetting all the buzz.

Instead, the hype and anticipation is centered around Kingston, Ontario’s PS I Love You, and their eagerly anticipated debut record, Meet Me at Muster Station, that his shelves on October 5th.

Comprised of multi-instrumentalist/singer Paul Saulnier and drummer Benjamin Nelson, this escalating pair churns out deceivingly effortless, fuzzed-out, indie-rock anthems that are hard-driving, melodic, and intense. For a band with an economic setup, their sound is huge, owing mostly to Saulnier’s awe-inspiring guitar handiwork and wounded yelp propelled along by Nelson’s insistent percussion.

I’ve got a copy of Meet Me at Muster Station for giveaway if you’re interested. Entering is business as usual: email me (on the right) by Monday, October 4th @ noon with “PS I Love You – CD Giveaway” in the subject line and your name in the body. One entry per person please.

I tracked the rising pair down for 11 questions, and here’s what the pair had to say (LOL @ Q.5):

Ben =ALL CAPS

Paul = all lowercase.

1. Where are you right now?

costa mesa, california

Let’s talk music…


2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

GEORGE MICHAEL - FAITH,
NEW ORDER - POWER, CORRUPTION & LIES
DEPECHE MODE - BLACK CELEBRATION
RADIOHEAD - KID A
JOY DIVISION - UNKNOWN PLEASURES

metallica - kill em all
sonic youth - goo
television - marquee moon
jimi hendrix - band of gypsys
serge gainsbourg - histoire de melody nelson
david bowie - low

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

JOY DIVISION - UNKOWN PLEASURES
WAVE FORMATION, BLACK, STARK, SIMPLE, VACANT BUT IT SAYS SO MUCH.
DESIGNED BY MY FAVE DESIGNER PETER SAVILLE.

my bloody valentine - loveless
this album looks exactly like how the music sounds.

4. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?

DAVID BOWIE.

maritn "zero" hannett (back from the dead) behind the mixing board with steve albini choosing the right mic's and amps and engineering and over seeing the whole thing. davie bowie and brian eno could be in the mixing booth just smoking and having a conversation while every once and a while david byrne's voice is heard shouting from a speaker-phone on a desk. and then the rza shows up to touch some buttons on some machines while telling jokes to boost team morale.

5. What’s the oddest thing a fan has yelled during one of your shows?

YOU JUST MADE OUR BONERS EXPLODE.

6. What is your favourite music video?

daft punk - da funk.
this video is so absurdly hilarious and surreal but also very sad. a dude in a giant rubber dog costume walking in downtown new york, trying to make connections with people.. it sounds so weird and ridiculous but it actually achieves something that's very honest and sincere. oh, and the song rules.

7. Where do you shop for music?

i'm a strictly vinyl dj and i love to rock good parties. i'm always digging for the originals of classic hip hop samples and breakbeats, etc..   i buy a lot of records, all the time, whenever and wherever i can... mostly from flea markets, garage sales and local used record stores in kingston like: brian's record option, turk's and zap. when i'm in toronto i go to kops, soundscapes and play de record.
And some hodgepodge…

8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?



BACK TO THE FUTURE.

dr. strangelove

9. What book(s) are you currently reading?

"the plague" by albert camus. this is the only book i read.











10. What tv show(s) do you follow?

MAD MEN, TRUE BLOOD, PARTY DOWN

dexter.
ghosthunters.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

fly. obvi.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Boats

Boats just might be my favourite local band.

Seriously.

Their latest release, Cannonballs, Cannonballs is home to smart, sophisticated, and enviably inventive pop that runs amok all over its 12 tracks. And each listen reveals something fresh and exciting, making it one of those rare and rewarding efforts I actively seek out.

See the band perform these highly eccentric pop tunes on September 9th at the U of W, then again on October 2nd at the friendly neighbourhood Lo Pub.

The band's touring lineup features a revolving cast of Winnipeg musical characters all built around singer-songwriter Mat Klachefsky. I recently tracked down the band's leader for 11 questions, and below is what he had to say.


1. Where are you right now?

I am in my house that I am about to move out of.  There is no furniture so everything is in piles on the floor.

Let’s talk Winnipeg…

2. Who is the most underrated Winnipeg-based band?

Ian La Rue!  Guy has been putting out records quietly for the last 8 years or so and they are great, especially his new one A History of Layers.  Plus it’s fun to yell his name out in crowds.

3. What is your favourite local venue?

That’s a tough one…  For comfort, I’ll say Lo-Pub, it’s a great little spot but the building is not the best set up for live music.  The West End Cultural Center is the best pure-music venue but it’s more of a theatre.

4. Where do you shop for music?

Music Trader!  Employee discount!!





5. Where is the best place in town to catch a bite?

There’s a million good places but I’ll say Falafel House.  It’s near my house.  They got good breakfast and falafel and sometimes the cook yells at people.

6. What’s the worst bus route in the city?

ALL OF THEM.  Winnipeg has the worst bus system on earth.

And some hodgepodge…

7. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Neutral Milk Hotel - In the Aeroplane Over The Sea
Modest Mouse - Lonesome Crowded West
Matador Records - Everything is Nice Compliation

8. Of the albums you own, which has the best cover art?

Without looking at every cover in my collection I’m going to say Grandaddy – Sophtware Slump.  I’m a sucker for rolling hills.

9. What TV shows are you currently following?

I’m on Season 4 of the Wire.






10. What is your current ringtone?

Funny you ask, I just got my first ever cell phone and no one has called me yet so I don’t know.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or to turn invisible? 

Flying would make touring way easier.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ The Wilderness of Manitoba

There are many reasons why you should love burgeoning alt-folk act The Wilderness of Manitoba. 

Here are five:

1. They bravely use the name of our mighty fine province in their moniker (last time THAT happened, a lawsuit was launched)
2. They compose seemingly effortless alt-folk soundscapes that are familiar, vulnerable, and soul-stirringly beautiful.
3. Said music is fueled by gorgeous melodies and lush vocal harmonies
4. They answered my 11 questions in video-form, conveniently uploaded the vid to YouTube, and sent me the link. Points for creativity and originality. Bonus points for making my posting life simple (no wrestling with temperamental html/ formatting required).
5. See numbers 1 through 4

If you’re interested in hearing this highly inventive folk troupe perform the many wonderful songs off their debut, When You Left the Fire, at the West End Cultural Centre on July 31 (in ACU Hall), I’ve got a pair of tickets to offer up courtesy of the generous folks at the WECC. Entering is, as always, simple. Fire off an email (on the side) by Thursday, July 29^th @ noon with the subject line “The Wilderness of Manitoba Ticket Giveaway” and your name in the email’s body. I’ll draw the winner randomly and contact the lucky person shortly thereafter.

Enjoy!

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Forest City Lovers

(Photo credit: Ryan Marr)

Easily the most exciting show happening this week in Winnipeg takes place this Tuesday at the Lo Pub, a true double-bill featuring about-to-breakout Toronto folk-pop outfit Forest City Lovers (and, as previously featured, blossoming singer-songwriter Leif Vollebekk).

Forest City Lovers are no stranger to the stage, having toured strongly behind all records (three to date) and building a solid live band reputation. Their latest ultra-melodic offering, Carriage, bubbles over with effervescent pop gems further buoyed by singer/band founder Kat Burns’ vibrant vocals and the group’s tight, dance-inducing rhythm section.

I had the chance to ask frontwoman Burns 11 interest-and-character revealing questions. Here’s what Kat had to say.

1. Where are you right now?
Currently in our friend Becky and Steven's living room in Abbotsford, British Columbia.

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

I think when I first discovered Kid A, that sort of brought music to a new light for me. It was the first album that was groundbreaking to me. I still love that album. Also On the Beach by Neil Young was also a major album for me in high school. These of course came about before I even played music, so I feel they were an important part in inspiring me to make music later on.




3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?
Oh gosh, I would have to go home and look through all my records. I have a lot of favourites, so I am not sure...

4. Where do you shop for music?
Soundscapes in Toronto, and usually the small independents in other cities that we visit. Got to support the small guys.

5. Who is the most underrated Canadian band at the moment?
Guelph Ontario's Richard Laviolette - he is a fantastic songwriter and every band he fronts is an extension of that.

6. What is your favourite music video?



Fleet Foxes - "White Winter Hymnal"
As an art student, it got me. I think that is hands down on of the most interesting video that has come out lately.

And some hodgepodge…

7. What is your current ringtone?
I'm not really into ringtones so mine is either just silent with vibrate or a regular ring.  I don't like hearing people's phone ring, ha.

8. PC or Mac?
Mac attack!

9. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

Chasing Amy and Ninja Turtles







10. What TV shows do you follow?
Nothing at the moment but I'm a huge fan of Arrested Development, Freaks and Geeks on DVD

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?
FLY! I would want people to see me flying.

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In The Know...11 Questions w/ Leif Vollebekk

Canada is irrefutably wealthy in natural resources.

Sure we’ve got scads of fresh water, oil, timber, wheat, and precious, precious metals. But, most importantly, we’re loaded with gifted folk singers.

Eat your heart out Iceland.

Montreal’s Leif Vollebekk is one such talent. Since entering the world back in January, the singer-songwriter’s debut record Inland has pleased ears from coast-to-coast, piling up gushing critical acclaim to boot. And he was even featured in La Blogotheque’s gorgeously shot, highly intimate Take Away Shows series in HD (see above).

Vollebekk’s rise is understandable. Inland is, simply put, a beautiful, introspective alt-folk record, a release that’s all him (Vollebekk arranged and orchestrated the whole offering). Musically, Inland is an uncluttered affair that unabashedly emphasizes Vollebekk’s poignant voice, thoughtful lyrics, and quaint, but affecting, acoustic strums.

If you’re interested in hearing what Vollebekk is all about, I highly recommend swinging by the Lo Pub on July 20th (Forest City Lovers are also on the bill). If you can’t make it, I have the next best thing: a copy of Inland for giveaway (courtesy of Nevado Records). Entering is same ol’, same ol’: open a new tab and fire me off an email (on the right) by July 15th @ noon with the subject line “Leif Vollebekk - Inland Giveaway”, and I’ll draw the winner randomly.

I tracked Vollebekk down the other day and fired off 11 questions to the upstart troubadour. Here’s what he had to say.

1. Where are you right now?
 I just got back from a beautiful lake, but now in Montreal.

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?
Love Country Style - Ray Charles
Blood On the Tracks - Bob Dylan
On the Beach - Neil Young..

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

Sigur Ros' Takk... - It just melts into that opening track so well.







4. What was the most memorable show you’ve played so far?
Probably De Barra's in Clonakilty, Ireland. I was opening for Sam Amidon but he missed his connecting flight. The crowd was so warm and kind that I ended up just playing two sets and having a lovely, Guinness-infused evening.

5. Who is one producer, alive or dead, you’d just love to work with?



Daniel Lanois. I think Time Out of Mind is the best-sounding record of the nineties.

6. What is your favourite music video?
I don't really watch videos, but I think my favourite is Radiohead's 'No Surprises'. It keeps your mind on the song. Doesn't take too much away, you know?

And some hodgepodge…

7. What is your current ringtone?
My 2004 Nokia is set on "Frog". It croaked for the last time in May and now it only vibrates.

8. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?
Toby Dammit, Fellini's adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's Never Bet The Devil Your Head.

9. What book(s) are you currently reading?
Some biography on Cortés, some Kerouac and a little Joyce?

10. Jon Stewart or Stephen Colbert?
Colbert, though Jon was the gatekeeper.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?
This is the kind of thing you'd regret, I think, if it ever did happen. I think. Maybe not.

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